River transport in transport policy in Poland and European Union

Abstract

Transport policy is one of the most important factors affecting transport systems in individual countries and in Europe as a whole. This article analyzes and evaluates the impact of the transport policy of Poland and that of the European Union on the development of river transport in Poland. The study focuses on the most important political and strategic documents in force in the European Union and in the Republic of Poland in 2001-2017, containing transport system concepts, including plans of long-term construction and modernization of transport infrastructure that partly involve river transport. It has been assumed that river transport should be a priority in the Polish transport system due to its technical, operational and environmental characteristics, safety, low external costs, increased competitiveness of sea ports and the socio-economic development of regions located along rivers. The European Union has been promoting the development of inland waterway, rail and intermodal modes of transport for years, aiming at the reduction of the share of road freight carriage that adversely affects the environment and intensifies congestions. EU transport policy makers have found it necesary to amend the proportions and to integrate sea, inland waterway and rail transport. The European Commission has recommended to develop river transport for its advantages, such as low environmental impact, safety and energy efficiency. The article analyzes and evaluates the conditions, in terms of institutions, legislation and infrastructure, for the development of inland shipping in Poland.